As pilot of an A-1H Skyraider on a night interdiction mission over the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos, 1st Lt Chorlins was preparing for a strike on truck traffic in Mu Gia Pass on 11 January 1970. In a turn at 7,500 feet, his aircraft was struck by 37mm antiaircraft fire, caught fire and crashed before he was able to eject. No parachute was seen and no beeper was heard.